NYT Dictionary

COPE

/ˈkoʊp/

VerbNounInterjectionKOHPGrade 9

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2025, 2026

Meaning

To deal effectively with something, especially if difficult.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

From Middle English coupen, from Old French coper, couper (“to strike, to cut”). The noun use went mainstream around 2020.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

contendhold it togetherhackcontrivemanageheadercopinggrappledealair

Antonyms

lose one's shit

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 8 recorded puzzles:

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